Edible Flowers and Weeds You’ll Actually Want to Cook With

Edible flowers and common weeds might not be the first things that come to mind when planning a meal, but many are both safe and surprisingly good to cook with. They can add color, texture, and unique flavors to everyday dishes. Plus, they’re often right in your backyard or at local markets.

From peppery nasturtiums to mild-flavored dandelion greens, there’s a wide range of plants that work well in salads, teas, baked goods, and sautés. Some bring a subtle herbal note, while others add a hint of sweetness or spice. They’re easy to experiment with once you know what to look for.

These ingredients are a fun way to mix up familiar recipes and make the most of seasonal plants. Whether tossed fresh into a salad or cooked into a main dish, they offer something different without being fussy. Just be sure you’re using the right plants and that they’re grown in a safe, untreated space.

Dandelion Cookies

These golden cookies make clever use of fresh dandelion petals for a subtle, honey-like sweetness. Soft and lightly crisp around the edges, they’re a nice change from the usual cookie flavors. Ideal for spring gatherings or an afternoon treat with tea.
Get the Recipe: Dandelion Cookies

Dandelion Syrup

Made with freshly picked dandelion flowers, this syrup brings a mild floral sweetness that’s great in drinks, over pancakes, or stirred into yogurt. It’s a lovely way to preserve a bit of sunshine from the garden. A gentle simmer extracts the flavor without being overpowering.
Get the Recipe: Dandelion Syrup

Lemon and Lavender Purple Mocktail Recipe

Refreshing and lightly fragrant, this non-alcoholic drink balances citrus brightness with soft floral notes. The natural purple hue adds a fun visual twist, making it perfect for warm days or a casual get-together. It’s easy to make but feels a little special.
Get the Recipe: Lemon and Lavender Purple Mocktail Recipe

Fresh Dandelion Greens Tea

Brewed from young dandelion greens, this tea has an earthy, slightly bitter flavor that many find grounding. It’s often enjoyed for its wellness-supporting properties. Sip it warm or chilled, depending on the season.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Dandelion Greens Tea

Dandelion Tea

Using either the flowers, leaves, or roots, this tea is simple to make and has a clean, herbal flavor. It’s been a traditional choice for generations, especially for those who enjoy gentle, earthy blends. Great on its own or lightly sweetened.
Get the Recipe: Dandelion Tea

Exploring the Delights of Edible Flowers

There’s more to flowers than their looks—many can add subtle flavors and color to your dishes. Think beyond garnishes: from drinks to desserts, a small handful can go a long way. This guide walks through a few favorite blossoms and how to use them.
Get the Recipe: Exploring the Delights of Edible Flowers

Lavender Tea Recipe

This calming tea brings out the delicate scent and flavor of dried lavender. Steeping it properly makes all the difference—too much and it gets soapy, just enough and it’s softly aromatic. Ideal for winding down at the end of the day.
Get the Recipe: Lavender Tea Recipe

Iced Karkade Tea Recipe

Made from dried hibiscus petals, karkade is naturally tart with a vibrant red color that looks as good as it tastes. Serve it chilled with a touch of sweetener and lemon. It’s a refreshing choice for hot afternoons.
Get the Recipe: Iced Karkade Tea Recipe

Light Baked Stuffed Squash Blossoms

These blossoms are filled with a light, herby cheese mixture and baked until just golden. They’re delicate but flavorful and feel a little fancy without being fussy. Best served warm with a simple dipping sauce or on their own.
Get the Recipe: Light Baked Stuffed Squash Blossoms

Lavender Chamomile Cake

Soft and subtly fragrant, this cake combines two calming herbs in a sweet, tender crumb. It’s perfect with tea or as a gentle dessert after a light meal. The floral notes are present but not overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Lavender Chamomile Cake

Dandelion Greens Pesto

This twist on the classic uses fresh dandelion greens for a slightly peppery kick. Blended with nuts, garlic, and olive oil, it’s great on pasta or sandwiches. A smart way to use backyard greens you might otherwise overlook.
Get the Recipe: Dandelion Greens Pesto

Lavender Syrup

Floral and lightly sweet, this syrup can be added to drinks, glazes, or even drizzled over fruit. It’s made by simmering dried lavender with sugar and water—simple and fragrant. Keep a bottle in the fridge for easy flavor boosts.
Get the Recipe: Lavender Syrup

Plum and Rose Jam

The richness of ripe plums pairs beautifully with the gentle scent of rose. This jam spreads easily and works well on toast, scones, or stirred into yogurt. A small batch can go a long way in adding something special to breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Plum and Rose Jam

Hibiscus Pomegranate Margarita

A bold, tart drink that brings together hibiscus tea and fresh pomegranate juice. It’s a pretty twist on a classic, with a deep red hue and refreshing taste. Serve it cold with a salted rim for extra contrast.
Get the Recipe: Hibiscus Pomegranate Margarita

Dandelion Jelly

This clear, golden jelly captures the mild, honey-like flavor of dandelion blossoms. It’s beautiful on warm toast or biscuits and a fun way to preserve a spring harvest. The texture is smooth and lightly spreadable.
Get the Recipe: Dandelion Jelly

Lilac Sugar

Infusing sugar with lilac blossoms gives a hint of floral aroma that works well in baking or stirred into tea. It’s a simple way to use fresh blooms while they’re in season. Store it in a jar and use it to subtly flavor everyday recipes.
Get the Recipe: Lilac Sugar